Solvent extraction of Tb(III) from hydrochloric acid solution with Cyanex 272, its mixture and ionic liquid

Abstract

Cyanex 272 shows the highest separation factor for the rare earth elements from hydrochloric acid solution among the organophosporus acidic extractants, D2EHPA and PC 88A. Solvent extraction of Tb(III) from weak hydrochloric acid solution with an initial pH 3 to 6 was compared with Cyanex 272, its mixture with Alamine 336, and ionic liquid with Aliquat 336. The solvent extraction reaction of Tb(III) using Cyanex 272 was the same as that of light rare earth elements. Synergism was observed for the extraction of Tb(III) by the mixture with Alamine 336 when the initial concentration ratio of Cyanex 272 to Alamine 336 was higher than 5. Use of the ionic liquid led to a great increase in the extraction percentage of Tb(III) from the same initial extraction conditions. While the equilibrium pH of the mixture was always lower than the initial pH, under some conditions extraction with the ionic liquid resulted in a higher equilibrium pH than the initial pH. The loading capacity of the mixture and the ionic liquid was the same and 2.6 times larger than that using Cyanex 272 alone. Ionic liquid was recommended as a suitable extractant for the extraction of Tb(III) from hydrochloric acid solution based on the ease of handling and higher extraction percentage.